Ukraine’s Defense Ministry last year introduced a state agency to reform its military procurement process and combat long-standing corruption, a significant step in its pursuit of NATO membership.  The State Logistics Operator, locally known as DOT, oversees purchases of nonlethal military goods, including food, clothing, and fuel. According to its CEO, Arsen Zhumadilov, the agency has already fulfilled 95% of requested orders while saving 25% in costs. DOT is also preparing to begin drone procurement soon.  These reforms are part of Ukraine's strategy to align with NATO standards. Officials argue that membership in the alliance is vital for deterring Russian aggression, though political challenges remain. Some NATO member states are hesitant to admit Ukraine, fearing an escalation of the conflict with Moscow. Meanwhile, NATO has emphasized that Ukraine must address corruption and implement broader anti-graft measures.  DOT’s progress contrasts with ongoing difficulties within the Defense Ministry, led by Rustem Umerov. Despite DOT’s success, restructuring the ministry and addressing corruption in lethal military procurement remain slow-moving.  Western officials have praised DOT’s achievements but continue to monitor its performance closely. Three Western diplomats, speaking anonymously, expressed optimism about the agency’s results one year after its establishment.  DOT represents a blend of modern innovation and legacy bureaucracy. Its office reflects a startup culture, starkly contrasting the traditional practices of one of Ukraine’s most rigid institutions. This duality mirrors the dynamics of the war, where advanced technologies like drones coexist with outdated trench warfare.  “We understand that NATO, the G7, and member countries are closely watching whether we can establish a procurement system that is resilient, efficient, and free from corruption,” Zhumadilov said.  The agency was formed in response to scandals under former Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov, including overpriced food contracts and substandard winter gear. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy tasked Umerov, Reznikov’s successor, with increasing transparency in defense procurement.  EU may suspend asylum for migrants 'weaponized' by Russia, Belarus DOT’s flagship initiative, DOT-Chain, is a digital platform designed to streamline procurement, from order submission to invoicing. It promises to cut delivery times by 75% and is the largest digital project in the ministry. Initially focusing on food supplies, the system may expand to other areas in the future.  However, resistance persists. Some ministry officials remain attached to manual paperwork, despite DOT’s efforts to modernize processes. “The volume of paperwork they manage weekly is unsustainable,” Zhumadilov said.  A planned merger between DOT and the Defense Procurement Agency, responsible for lethal supplies, was scrapped after NATO advised against it, raising questions about Umerov’s decisions.  Despite challenges, DOT remains committed to reforming Ukraine’s defense sector. “We are preserving our own culture while navigating resistance,” Zhumadilov said, emphasizing the agency’s role in Ukraine’s NATO ambitions. Source: WIth inputs from wires

The weather across Bangladesh is expected to remain mostly dry with a temporary partly cloudy sky over the next few days, according to BMD’s latest weather bulletin on Friday. A mild cold wave is sweeping through the northern and western regions, with districts such as Panchagarh, Rajshahi, and Chuadanga experiencing the chill. This cold wave is expected to persist for the time being, it said. Dense fog halts Paturia-Daulatdia ferry route for 6 hours Moderate to thick fog is likely to develop at various locations, especially during the midnight until noon, causing reduced visibility and potentially disrupting travel in the affected areas, the bulletin added. Both night and day temperatures are expected to fall slightly across the country.  

Billionaire Elon Musk 's company on Thursday sent a letter to local officials requesting an election to turn what it calls Starbase — the South Texas site where SpaceX builds and launches its massive Starship rockets — into an incorporated city. Residents of the area known as Starbase submitted the petition, according to the company. The area is on the southern tip of Texas at Boca Chica Beach, near the Mexican border. Earlier this year, Musk announced he was moving the headquarters of SpaceX and his social media company X from California to Texas. “To continue growing the workforce necessary to rapidly develop and manufacture Starship, we need the ability to grow Starbase as a community. That is why we are requesting that Cameron County call an election to enable the incorporation of Starbase as the newest city in the Rio Grande Valley,” Kathryn Lueders, the general manager of Starbase, wrote in a letter to the county. It's not the first time turning Starbase into its own city has been floated. Musk proposed the idea in 2021 when he wrote a social media post that simply said, “Creating the city of Starbase, Texas.” Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr, the county’s top elected official, said despite the talks of incorporation in 2021, this was the first time a petition was officially filed. “Our legal and elections administration will review the petition, see whether or not it complied with all of the statutory requirements and then we’ll go from there," Treviño said on Thursday. More than 3,400 full-time SpaceX employees and contractors work at the Starbase site, according to a local impact study issued by Trevino earlier this year. Niger junta suspends BBC for alleged false attack coverage SpaceX's rapid expansion in the region has drawn pushback from some locals. Earlier this year, a group called Save RGV sued the company in July over allegations of environmental violations and dumping polluted water into the nearby bay. SpaceX said in response that a state review found no environmental risks and called the lawsuit “frivolous.”  

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked the second on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 258 at 10:58 am on Friday. The air was classified as “very unhealthy” and such air quality continued for the past few days, according to the Air Quality Index. Pakistan’s Lahore, India’s Delhi and Nepal’s Kathmandu occupied the first, second and fourth spots in the list, with AQI scores of 271, 219 and 188 respectively. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dense fog halts Paturia-Daulatdia ferry route for 6 hours Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

Neanderthals and humans likely mixed and mingled during a narrow time frame 45,000 years ago, scientists reported Thursday. Researchers analyzed ancient genes to pinpoint the time period, which is slightly more recent than previous estimates for the mating. Modern humans emerged in Africa hundreds of thousands of years ago and eventually spread to Europe, Asia and beyond. Somewhere along the way, they met and mated with Neanderthals, leaving a lasting fingerprint on our genetic code. Scientists don't know exactly when or how the two groups entangled. But ancient bone fragments and genes are helping scientists figure that out. “Genetic data from these samples really helps us paint a picture in more and more detail,” said study co-author Priya Moorjani at the University of California Berkeley. The research published Thursday in the journals Science and Nature. To pin down the timeline, researchers peeked at some of the oldest human genes from the skull of a woman, called Zlatý kůň or Golden horse for a hill in the Czech Republic where it was found. They also examined bone fragments from an early human population in Ranis, Germany, about 140 miles (230 kilometers) away. They found snippets of Neanderthal DNA that placed the mating at around 45,000 years ago. In Nigeria's lithium boom, many mines are illegal and children do much of the work In a separate study, researchers tracked signs of Neanderthal in our genetic code over 50,000 years. They found Neanderthal genes related to immunity and metabolism that may have helped early humans survive and thrive outside of Africa. We still carry Neanderthals' legacy in our DNA. Modern-day genetic quirks linked to skin color, hair color and even nose shape can be traced back to our extinct former neighbors. And our genetic code also contains echoes from another group of extinct human cousins called Denisovans. Future genetic studies can help scientists detangle exactly what — and who — we're made of, said Rick Potts, director of the Smithsonian’s Human Origins program who was not involved with the new research. “Out of many really compelling areas of scientific investigation, one of them is: well, who are we?” Potts said.

Dense fog caused the suspension of the Paturia-Daulatdia ferry route for six hours. Nasir Chowdhury, DGM of the Aricha Sector, said dense fog is a natural phenomenon, and ferry services could not resume until the fog cleared. Ferry operations resumed at 8:30 am once the fog's intensity diminished. During this time, over a hundred vehicles, including goods-laden trucks, private cars, microbuses, and other vehicles, got stranded at both terminals. BMD predicts cooler nights ahead BIWTC (Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation) officials said the fog began to thicken from midnight and fully covered the waterway by around 2:30 am. To prevent any maritime accidents, they halted ferry services. Ferries loaded with vehicles were held back at both terminals during this period.  

Dhaka University’s announcement regarding the much-sought Dhaka University Central Students' Union (Ducsu) election has stirred a wave of enthusiasm and expectations among students and student organisations. The elections, expected to be held in late January or early February next year, are seen as an opportunity to rejuvenate the democratic fabric of campus life. Amend DUCSU constitution, immediately hold election: Biplobi Chhatra Moitri The prospect of Ducsu elections has revived hopes for a democratic and transparent process that could create a healthier political environment on campus. Emphasising the significance of this development, Sadiq Kayem, president of DU Chhatra Shibir, said, “We welcome the decision to hold Ducsu elections. If democracy and voting rights are ensured at Dhaka University, it will positively impact the whole of Bangladesh. The July-August uprising has created new hopes among students, and we want to see new approaches beyond traditional political practices.” Kayem also stressed the importance of prioritising the aspirations of students while fostering cooperation and tolerance among student organisations. Setu Bhaban case: Former DUCSU VP Nur sent to jail Voices of Student Leaders Abu Baker Majumder, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, echoed these sentiments, noting that the August 5 uprising had ignited fresh expectations for Ducsu elections. “As the anti-discrimination movement has consistently championed students’ rights, we aim to represent them if elections take place,” he said. Majumder highlighted the need for reforms in the Ducsu constitution, including discussions on the vice-chancellor’s role as president and transparency in budget allocation. “We hope the administration engages all stakeholders to ensure Ducsu’s effective functioning.”  Referring to concerns about electoral fairness, he urged measures to prevent malpractice in residential halls. Ganesh Chandra Roy Shahos, president of DU Chhatra Dal, expressed caution over the timing of the elections. “The campus and the nation are still recovering from the trauma of the July-August uprising. Holding the elections too soon or too late could disrupt the level playing field. A clear roadmap is essential to ensure a positive and festive electoral environment,” he said. Calls for Reforms Salman Siddique, coordinator of Gonotantrik Chhatra Jhut, an alliance of eight leftist student organisations, demanded the immediate holding of elections. “We want the Ducsu elections to be held promptly, but not a repeat of the one-sided election of 2019.” Siddique urged the administration to consult all student organisations and ensure an equitable environment for candidates. He also called for the formation of a commission to reform the Ducsu constitution, adding that his alliance would field like-minded candidates. Jabir Ahmed Jubel, general secretary of Biplobi Chhatra Moitri, voiced similar demands. “The vice-chancellor should not wield undue power as Ducsu president but must be obligated to implement its decisions. Voting centres should also be relocated to faculties for greater accessibility,” Jubel suggested. DSA case against ex-DUCSU VP Nur dismissed Campus Abuzz The announcement has electrified the campus, with students and organizations gearing up for a potentially transformative election. Many believe that a fair and transparent Ducsu election could reshape the political dynamics of Dhaka University, fostering greater inclusivity and democratic engagement. The road ahead is fraught with challenges. Ensuring a level playing field, addressing grievances regarding the Ducsu constitution and preventing electoral malpractice are critical to realising the students' aspirations. As the university administration prepares to finalise the election timeline, the anticipation is palpable. Chargesheet filed against ex-DUCSU VP Nur under DSA  Students hope that this long-overdue election will not only fulfill their democratic rights but also set a precedent for positive change across the nation.

Niger's military junta has suspended the BBC for three months, accusing the broadcaster of disseminating false information in its coverage of an extremist attack that purportedly claimed the lives of dozens of Nigerien soldiers and civilians, according to authorities on Thursday, reports AP. Raliou Sidi Mohamed, Niger’s communications minister, stated in letters addressed to radio stations that rebroadcast BBC content that the broadcaster was “spreading false information aimed at destabilising social calm and undermining troops' morale.” Mohamed instructed these stations to halt all BBC programming “with immediate effect. ”In Nigeria's lithium boom, many mines are illegal and children do much of the work The BBC declined to comment on the suspension. The BBC, widely popular in Niger, airs several programmes, including Hausa-language content, through local radio partners to cater to a significant audience across the region. On Wednesday, the broadcaster reported in Hausa on its website that armed attackers had killed over 90 Nigerien soldiers and more than 40 civilians in two villages near the border with Burkina Faso. Similarly, the French broadcaster Radio France Internationale (RFI) reported on the attack, describing it as a jihadi assault and providing the same death toll figures. However, Niger's authorities denied the occurrence of any attack in the area. In a statement broadcast on state television, they announced plans to file a complaint against RFI for “incitement to genocide.” For over a decade, Niger and its neighbours Burkina Faso and Mali have faced insurgencies led by jihadist groups affiliated with al-Qaida and the Islamic State. In recent years, military coups in these nations have resulted in the expulsion of French forces and a pivot towards security partnerships with Russia’s mercenary groups. Despite these changes, analysts note that the security situation in the Sahel has deteriorated, with an unprecedented rise in attacks and civilian casualties attributed to both Islamic militants and government forces. In addition to grappling with security challenges, the juntas in these nations have intensified crackdowns on political dissent and press freedom. Earlier in the year, Malian authorities prohibited media coverage of political parties and associations, while Burkina Faso suspended both the BBC and Voice of America radio stations over their reporting on a mass killing of civilians by state forces. Gunmen kidnap some 50 people in Nigeria Niger itself banned French broadcasters France 24 and RFI in August 2023, a month after its military leaders seized power in a coup. Sadibou Marong, head of Reporters Without Borders' sub-Saharan Africa office, observed in September that the juntas typically impose media censorship whenever security issues or state abuses are reported in an unfavourable light. He added that obtaining reliable, impartial information on government actions or covering the security situation in these nations has become increasingly challenging.

Amir Jangoo's unbeaten century on debut completed the West Indies' one-day international series sweep of Bangladesh at Warner Park on Thursday. The West Indies already had the series in hand after chasing down 294 and 227 this week, and even after being a set a target of 322 it still cruised to victory. Bangladesh set 322 target for West Indies in final ODI Bangladesh finally put up a score the pitch deserved, 321-5 with four half-centuries, but the host overcame a wobbly start with a controlled chase that reached 325-6 with four overs to spare. The highest successful ODI run chase at Warner Park was also the third highest in West Indies ODI history. Jangoo handled it like a seasoned pro, even though he came to bat in his first senior international with West Indies 86-4 in the 15th over. Keacy Carty shepherded Jangoo and they combined for 132 runs until Carty fell for 95. West Indies still needed 104 runs off 100 balls and Jangoo took up the reins. His unbeaten 104 off 83 balls was the second-highest score by a West Indian man in an ODI debut after Desmond Haynes' 148 against Australia in 1978. West Indies to bowl first against Bangladesh in 3rd ODI After Jangoo achieved his milestone, Gudakesh Motie finished off proceedings with 44 off 31 balls. Because the series was won, Jangoo was debuted after scoring 96, 70 not out, 111, and 93 not out for Trinidad and Tobago in 50-over matches in the last six weeks. He and Carty had some luck. Carty was dropped on 22 and survived an lbw appeal on 73. Jangoo was dropped on 61, and Carty was out the next ball after slicing Rishad Hossain to backward point. Carty's 95 came off 88 balls. Jangoo and Motie kept the run rate on track until victory was in sight. Nerveless in the 90s, Jangoo's fourth six, over long-on, gave him the hundred off 79 balls. “It is surreal, an amazing feeling,” Jangoo said. “I just did not want to make a duck on debut. He (Carty) is a close friend of mine, made it easy for me.” Bangladesh's score was bolstered by two huge partnerships; 136 between Soumya Sarkar and captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and 150 not out between Mahmudullah and Jaker Ali. Sarkar was dropped off the fourth ball of the game, in the slips, before he scored, and turned it into 73 off 73 balls. West Indies seal series with 7-wicket win over Bangladesh Mehidy was run out for 77 off 73. That brought together Mahmudullah and Jaker in the 31st over. As they warmed up they hit harder. Mahmudullah achieved his fifth fifty in six appearances at Warner Park, and fourth straight fifty at the ground. He and Jaker took 104 runs off the last 10 overs, 59 off the last four. Mahmudullah's unbeaten 84 came off 63 balls, and Jaker's unbeaten 62 off 57. “Three fifties in this series (by Mahmudullah) is a good moment for our team,” Mehidy said. “We learn so many things from him.”

The deputy executive director of the U.N. World Food Program (WFP) has been visiting hotspots across the Middle East and Sudan to evaluate worsening humanitarian crises and increasing demands for food among millions affected by conflict, reports AP. Carl Skau, in a recent interview with the Associated Press, revealed that funding shortages have compelled the agency to reduce the number of people it can assist. Despite efforts to diversify funding sources, including private sector contributions, Skau warned of a challenging future with growing needs and insufficient resources. Israel's Syrian buffer zone advance reveals both risks and opportunities ‘A triple crisis’ in Syria Syria is grappling with the aftermath of a 13-year civil war, an influx of people from the recent Israel-Hezbollah conflict in Lebanon, and the unexpected ousting of long-time leader Bashar Assad. Prior to these developments, 3 million Syrians were already acutely food insecure, though the WFP could only assist 2 million due to funding constraints. Now, the compounded crises are escalating humanitarian needs. While Aleppo remains relatively calm, the capital, Damascus, is marked by disruptions in markets, currency devaluation, rising food prices, and transport issues. This has necessitated immediate humanitarian efforts. Moving forward, the U.N. plans to focus on recovery and eventual reconstruction in Syria. Gaza’s descent toward famine Skau highlighted dire conditions in northern Gaza but expressed even greater concern for southern Gaza, particularly for approximately 1 million displaced individuals near Khan Younis as winter looms. In northern Gaza, where about 65,000 Palestinians remain without aid for over two months, Israeli military actions, lawlessness, and theft of food aid have hindered humanitarian access. Limited convoys have managed to reach Gaza City, accommodating around 300,000 people. In southern Gaza, where 1.2 million people received WFP aid through September, only 400,000 Palestinians were assisted in October and November. Restricted entry points, difficulties in transporting supplies, and a breakdown in civil order have severely limited aid delivery. International famine experts warned weeks ago that without change, famine was imminent in Gaza—a trajectory Skau believes is now unfolding. Over 50 killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza Sudan’s overwhelming humanitarian crisis Sudan faces the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, with 25 million people acutely food insecure and famine officially declared in the Zam Zam displacement camp in western Darfur. Skau noted recent progress in securing clearances for aid delivery across conflict zones and from Chad. With the end of the rainy season, roads have become accessible, enabling greater food deliveries. A WFP convoy recently reached Zam Zam camp, but two others have been delayed due to recent fighting in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur and the last major city in Darfur under Sudanese military control. Sudan’s conflict began in April 2023, following tensions between military and paramilitary factions, leading to widespread violence in Khartoum and other regions, including Darfur. Paramilitary rampage kills over 120 in east-central Sudan: UN This month, WFP reached 2.6 million people in Sudan, but Skau stressed that the international community has not adequately addressed the crisis and must increase its efforts.